ostracism

[os-truh-siz-uhm]

noun

1. exclusion, by general consent, from social acceptance, privileges, friendship, etc.

2. (in ancient Greece) temporary banishment of a citizen, decided upon by popular vote.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ostracism¹

1570–80; < New Latin ostracismus < Greek ostrakismós banishment, equivalent to ostrak ( ízein ) to ostracize + -ismos -ism

Example Sentences

The resulting one-sided discourse means that views that don’t align with official propaganda often draw harassment and ostracism.

From Los Angeles Times

Blessedly, such ostracism has not been the case, and one has to assume that much of that is on Manville’s part.

From Salon

"That review identified evidence of a concerning practice of social ostracism among students, often referred to as a cancel culture," the coroner said.

From BBC

Lamentably, there were expressions of antisemitism and ostracism on campuses last year that created a feeling of discomfort among Jewish students, staff and faculty members, particularly those who strongly support Israel.

From Los Angeles Times

The use of the word “clean” on dating apps served as a regular reminder that the epidemic may have subsided, but ostracism remained.

From Los Angeles Times